At least 30 people are feared to have been killed in a stampede at a popular tourist site in Haiti on Saturday. The incident took place during an annual Easter gathering at the Laferrière Citadel, a Unesco World Heritage site, according to Jean Henri Petit, head of civil protection for Haiti's Nord department, who warned that the death toll could rise. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé stated the event was attended by many young people in the northern town of Milot, confirming that authorities are mobilized to support those affected. He expressed the government's condolences to the affected families. The site had drawn numerous visitors and students following promotions on social media, leading to overcrowding following the event commemorating the fortress's founding. The stampede reportedly started near the entrance and was worsened by heavy rain. While local media, including Haiti's Le Nouvelliste, initially reported on the toll, the government has not confirmed specifics. The Citadelle, also known as Citadelle Henry, was built by revolutionary Henri Christophe after Haiti's independence from France, and remains a symbol of Haitian freedom. This tragedy unfolds amid increased gang violence in Haiti, which has resulted in substantial casualties.
Tragic Stampede Claims Lives in Haiti's Historic Fortress
Tragic Stampede Claims Lives in Haiti's Historic Fortress
A devastating crowd crush at the Laferrière Citadel during an Easter gathering results in at least 30 fatalities, raising concerns amid ongoing struggles with gang violence in Haiti.
At least 30 people are feared dead after a stampede during a large Easter event at Haiti's historic Laferrière Citadel. The incident occurred in Milot, where many young attendees gathered. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé announced an investigation, while the site became overcrowded, contributing to the deadly crush exacerbated by heavy rain. This tragedy adds to the backdrop of escalating violence in Haiti.
